Modern Classics: The Barcelona Chair

In 1957, Mies van der Rohe said to Times magazine, "A chair is very difficult object. A skyscraper is almost easier." He had accomplished such a difficult feat with the Barcelona chair, designed for the 1929 International Expo with his partner, architect Lilly Reich. After receiving much acclaim for the piece, which was inspired by the folding chairs of Egyptian and Roman royalty, he never designed another chair.

What I personally love about the Barcelona is its simplicity and comfort. What frustrates me about modern design is the sometimes disregard for the latter. Plus, it combines my two favorite things in furniture: tufting and leather. Here are few ways our readers have used the classic seat in their homes. Are you using one in yours? Share below!